newsletter signup

Alabama Football Team Visits Atlanta Zone

The College Football Playoff National Championship won’t be in Atlanta until 2018, but everyone at the Atlanta Zone got to feel the exciting vibe of a championship team when the University of Alabama football club paid a visit! Members of the team and coaching staff took time away from practice to have fun with patients, including Wii sports competitions, football helmet decorating, Chick-fil-A cow herding, and a famed touchdown dance. Athlete visits to the hospital are a regular occurrence in connection with the Chick-fil-A Bowl, but this visit was extra special with the number one team in the country!

One of the highlights of the day was seeing kids meeting players for the first time. “It is a joy to see your child really light up and have a big smile, when she hasn’t had it a while,” commented the mom of Grace, who was thrilled to meet head coach Nick Saban!

Jaleesa Warren, Patient Activity Specialist in The Zone, said, “Even though I am an avid Georgia fan, I can say for sure this is one of the best and most exciting events I’ve been a part of!” This sentiment was shared by everyone who experienced the visit, from patients and families, to staff, and even the Georgia State Patrol who escorted the team!

No matter your college affiliation, being able to meet the top team in the country and have fun with a legendary coach would make anyone’s day. After this visit, The University of Alabama can count on the cheers and support from all the patients in the Atlanta Zone!

The Child Life Zone at Scottish Rite is a part of the Teammates for Kids Child Life Zone Network of 11 Child Life Zones at pediatric hospitals across the country. Each zone is staffed by certified child life specialists who help children and their families cope with difficult medical challenges through play, education, and self-expression.